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Caring for a family member or friend with a chronic condition can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. This highly effective, evidence-based, self-care educational program for family caregivers, builds the skills caregivers need to take better care of themselves as they provide care for others. Caregiver participants learn to minimize the potentially negative impacts of caregiving in a six-week program emphasizing self-care and empowerment.

In the six weekly classes, caregivers develop a wealth of self-care tools to:

• Reduce personal stress
• Change negative self-talk
• Communicate their needs to family members and healthcare or service providers
• Communicate effectively in challenging situations
• Recognize the messages in their emotions and deal with difficult feelings
• Make tough caregiving decisions
• Class participants also receive a copy of The Caregiver Helpbook, developed specifically for the class

These classes are conducted virtually via Zoom and are available at NO CHARGE thanks to a generous sponsorship from Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington (ALTCEW).

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a FREE program tailored to fit the specific needs of cancer survivors who would like to improve their quality of life. Our certified Lifestyle Coaches and personal trainers have undergone specialized training in the elements of cancer, rehabilitative exercise and supportive cancer care. Sessions are offered in a small group environment with exercise protocols customized for each individual.

Read news release  showing significant gains for cancer survivor participants.

FAQ

The LIVESTRONG® Foundation

There can – and should be – life after cancer for the more than 32.6 million people around the world affected by cancer. Creating connections for needed support, leveraging funding and resources to spur innovation, and engaging communities and leaders to drive social change, the foundation known for the iconic yellow wristband puts its mission in motion by inspiring and empowering those affected by cancer. For more information, visit LIVESTRONG.org.

This might be for you if…

• You are a survivor 18 years or older
•  You have been medically cleared by your doctor to participate in a physical activity program. Our staff can provide support in obtaining an official medical clearance at the time of program entry but you are encouraged to discuss your interest in participation with your medical team before initiating a pre-registration interview.
• You have completed portions of treatment that could limit full participation, such as surgeries that require downtime for recovery, treatment protocols which require immune system protocols limiting contact with others, etc.
• You completed treatment years ago but did not previously get the help needed to reclaim your health either through spirit, mind or body, or all.
• You possess a strong personal desire and commitment to attend all classes. The commitment of the program requires twice-weekly meetings for 12 consecutive weeks.
• You give your permission for LIVESTRONG at the YMCA coaches to talk with your healthcare team, if needed
• You are physically able to participate in most of the activities
• You are willing to complete the required forms

LIVESTRONG Orientation

Orientations are an opportunity for cancer survivors to learn about LIVESTRONG at the YMCA: A Cancer Survivor Wellness Program, and to complete their program pre-registration interview.  Interested (or curious) survivors are encouraged to attend an orientation to learn about the program and determine whether it is a good fit and the right time for them to participate.

The April orientation was recorded and can be viewed below. If, after watching the orientation (40 minutes), a survivor determines that they would like to participate in the LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program, they may follow the instructions at the end of the video to schedule their required pre-registration interview.

• The next LIVESTRONG at the YMCA program begins May 24 and runs through Aug 19.

General Inquiries

Please call 509 777 9622 for general information about the program.

Nutrition Coaching

• Register for Central Spokane Y
• Register for Spokane Valley Y
• Register for Litehouse Y (Sandpoint, ID)

Ages 18+. Work one-on-one with a registered dietitian to bring healthy eating into your life. Whether you are looking to eat better, lose weight, or you are an athlete wanting to increase performance, our staff will create a nutrition plan to meet your needs.

Virtual Nutrition Seminars

• Nutrition Series  |  Wednesdays  |  10am
• Family Nutrition  |  1st & 3rd Wednesdays  |  6pm

Your nutrition habits play a significant role in your overall health. Consuming a healthy diet can help you feel your best, prevent and control many chronic diseases, aid in weight loss and weight maintenance. Learn how to eat well with practical and factual advice from our registered dietitians.

There’s never been a better time to invest in YOU! Join the YMCA’s Weight Loss Program.

The 12-week, Y Weight Loss Program is designed to help people seeking a healthier weight achieve their goals by making small, modest changes to their daily behaviors, and forming sustainable habits. Each week participants will weigh in, be introduced to a new topic relevant to weight loss, discuss as a group successes/challenges/suggestions around the weekly topic, and develop goals for the upcoming week. Topics covered during the program include nutrition, physical activity, stress and sleep, positive psychology, goal setting, and sustainability. Ages 18+.

If you would like to learn strategies and build habits for healthy, sustainable weight loss and weight management, the YMCA’s Weight Loss Program may be for you. Space is limited. Give yourself the best YOU yet with the support and tools to live a healthier life.

For more information, please call  509 777 9622.

Pedaling a bicycle may change the life of someone with Parkinson’s disease. Research conducted at the Cleveland Clinic showed a 35% reduction in symptoms by the simple act of pedaling a bicycle at a rapid pace – optimally, 80-90 revolutions per minute. Fast pedaling is not a cure of Parkinson’s disease but it is changing the lives of increasing numbers of participants who, before, had no hope beyond medication and eventually surgery to slow the progression of their disease.

You should participate if you are:

• 18 – 75 years
• Diagnosed with Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease
• Willing to complete and submit signed consent form and medical clearance
• Agree to periodic progress monitoring
• Do not have cardiac or pulmonary disease, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, uncontrolled hypertension, or stroke, dementia, other medical conditions that are contraindicative to exercise.

This program is free for Parkinson’s patients

For more information and to register contact Vincent Allen Central Health & Wellness Director, 509 777 9622 x 112.